What Is a Freelance Assistant?
A freelance assistant (or independent secretary) is a professional who offers administrative support services to businesses that want to outsource their back-office tasks. As a freelancer, you’re not employed by your client—you work independently and typically serve multiple companies at once.
What Services Can a Freelance Assistant Offer?
Freelance assistants offer a wide range of services, depending on the needs of their clients—whether individuals, businesses, nonprofits, or public organizations.
Services for Individuals
The digitization of administrative procedures has led many individuals to seek help from freelance secretarial services for:
- Tax declarations
- Vehicle registration applications
- Budget and invoice management
- Drafting formal letters (requests, complaints, etc.)
Services for Businesses
The majority of clients are businesses, and the freelance assistant often serves as the right-hand of the business owner—offering both administrative and commercial support. Common services include:
- Creating quotes and invoices
- Document formatting
- Setting up administrative workflows
- Customer follow-up and CRM support
What Skills Are Essential to Become a Freelance Assistant?
This role requires a broad skill set and a high level of adaptability. The key competencies include:
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Professionalism and discretion with confidential information
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Proficiency with office software and digital tools
While the profession is not regulated—meaning no official diploma is required—it’s highly recommended to have relevant qualifications or experience to build credibility with potential clients.
Relevant Training Paths
- BAC Pro – Administration & Management
- BEP – Administrative Services
- BTS – SME Management
- DUT – Business & Administration
- Professional training courses in office management and digital tools
Key Facts to Know
- You’ll be registered with the Chamber of Trades and Crafts (CFE – CMA)
- Your NAF/APE code will be 82.11Z – Combined Office Administrative Services
- As a micro-entrepreneur, your annual turnover must not exceed €77,700
- Your earnings range from €20 to €45/hour, depending on your skills
- You’ll pay 21.2% in social security contributions from your revenue
What Business Structure Should You Choose?
Your legal status will depend on your financial situation, marital status, and long-term goals. Here are the most common structures:
- Micro-Enterprise: Simple and cost-effective for starting out.
- Sole Proprietorship (EI): Offers simplified accounting, with full liability.
- EURL (Single-Person Limited Company): Limited liability and lower social charges than a SASU, but less social protection.
- SASU (Single-Person Joint-Stock Company): More protection via the general social security system, but higher charges.
Tip: It’s wise to consult a legal or financial advisor before choosing your structure.
How to Start Your Freelance Assistant Business
Like any business, your first step is to conduct market research. This is crucial in a highly competitive sector. Pair your research with a business plan to evaluate demand and define your positioning.
Once you choose a legal status, you can move forward with your business registration.
For Micro-Entrepreneurs:
- You must declare your activity using the P0 PL form
- Since January 1, 2023, this is done via the INPI Single Window through the e-Procédures portal
In Summary
- The services you offer will vary depending on whether your clients are individuals or professionals
- The micro-enterprise status is the most popular legal structure for freelance assistants
- The profession is not regulated, so anyone can start—but having a qualification adds credibility
- You must stay current on digital tools, legal limitations, and best practices in administrative work
- Ongoing learning and strong business skills will set you apart in a competitive field
Ready to launch your career as a freelance assistant?
Start with a strong foundation, define your offer, register your business, and connect with your first clients.
Let me know if you’d like a downloadable checklist, business plan template, or setup guide to help you get started!
